PL Darts: Chisnall can turn outstanding season into glory at O2

London’s O2 plays host to the conclusion of the PDC Premier League Darts 2015 and in keeping with the shock elimination of Phil Taylor for the first time in the event’s history, a man who nobody earmarked for glory at the outset is in great shape for a landmark victory.

Dave Chisnall failed to make any impression in the competition’s second phase on debut last year, losing six of seven matches, but in 2015 the St Helens slinger has emerged as one of the dominant forces.

Continuing his rise through the PDC ranks since making the switch in 2011, Chizzy has defied expectations by finishing second in the table, matching Michael van Gerwen in top spot on ten wins.

He’s earned a shot at 2011 Premier League champion and current world title holder Gary Anderson as his reward in the semis and although that sounds a daunting task, his results against the Scotsman in the tournament defy his outsider status.

Chisnall is 11/8 to complete a hat-trick of wins over Anderson, following 7-2 and 7-3 victories in the group phases, which would book the Englishman’s place on the O2 oche for the final showdown.

At this stage, the 5/1 on offer that he lifts the trophy is an eye-popping price, especially as he’s lost the least legs, recorded most 180s and has banged in the second highest overall average of 101.39.

Should he oust Anderson, the wildcard is certain to face one of the last two winners in London, but most likely it will be the 2013 champion Van Gerwen, ahead of compatriot Raymond van Barneveld who defends his title.

Barney has worked wonders to drag himself back into contention after a woeful start to his defence, but aside from a second-phase win over his countryman, he usually has a mental block when faced with MVG of late.

Van Gerwen recorded a 6-2 defeat of Van Barnaveld in their last meeting at the PDA Players Championship Coventry a fortnight ago, to make it eight wins in their last nine clashes since losing in the final here 12 months ago.

Revenge for Mighty Mike looks to be on the cards at 3/10, but don’t forget Ladbrokes will be running a whole series of specials to accompany this televised spectacle of world-class darts.

If you believe that it might all get a bit dizzy for Chizzy under the O2 Arena spotlights, then one to look out for is the 11/10 double on both Anderson and Van Gerwen to win their semis.

For a full list of specials for play-off night, just click here.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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